Topsy Ann

Current boat name

Topsy Ann

Boat class

7223

Function

Sports and Leisure

Type

Length (m / ft)

8.53 / 28ft

Beam (m / ft)

2.59 / 8ft 6in

Propulsion

Engine

Date of build

1932

Place of build

Goole

TOPSY ANN was built by Smith Brothers in 1932, registered on the Thames with Lloyds in 1932 number 7185 There is then no history at all until she was found in West Bay operating as a 'lifeboat'. Topsy Ann was rescued by John Miller from Weymouth Harbour and restored in Bridport by Roger Fooks and Peter Hopwood of the John Miller Trust around the year 2,000 to a very high standard- apparently around £25,000 was spent - and gained an MCA certificate to carry '6 persons with a qualified skipper in dayight under suitable sea conditions'. Unfortunately no organisation was found to manage her and she eventually was sold to a couple on the Kennet and Avon Canal as a liveaboard boat. This led to a period of neglect under three owners which is now being reversed. It is mooted that she was a Dunkirk Small Ship but there is no documentary evidence for this other than being in the right place (Port of London) at the right time. 26/03/13 NRJ